Author's note: This is the last regular chapter. There's definitely an epilogue, so try not to be too sad? All good stories must end eventually. I've had a blast writing this story and I may very well revisit this verse via one shots in the future. :) Enjoy!

Disclaimer: Sadly, no.

Chapter 26

Emma yawned as they waited for their bags. They stayed in London as late as they could, taking a red eye flight to Philadelphia, then switching planes for their final destination. The new semester started in less than forty eight hours; Emma herself had a shift at the diner the next day or they would have stayed longer.

Killian wrapped his arm around her as she leaned on him; poor lass was exhausted. He texted Liam to let his brother know they arrived safely, promising to call the following day. He missed Liam and Molly already; the four of them had grown close during their weeks in England. But he had to admit that sleeping in his own bed was most welcome.

"I think I see our bags coming around," he said softly, squeezing her shoulder. "Be right back."

"Okay." Emma held onto the trolley Killian has secured for their bags; they had a couple more than they left with. She hadn't thought they'd done that much shopping but when it came time to pack, there just wasn't enough room. Her swan Christmas ornament lay safely in her carry on, wrapped in about ten feet of paper. She switched her phone back on and was surprised to see nearly a half dozen calls from Elsa. Emma frowned as she dialed, putting the phone to her ear. What could be so important?

"Emma! Are you back?"

"We landed twenty minutes ago. Elsa, what's so urgent?"

"Your test scores are here. As well as two official looking letters from Stanford and Michigan."

"Holy shit," Emma breathed, the news waking her up instantly. She'd managed to put the lingering anxiety about her law school prospects out of her mind while they were in England; it was refreshing to not have to worry about the proverbial other shoe. She didn't expect to have news this soon, but suddenly she needed to be home. "We're on our way. See you in few minutes."

"Emma, what's the matter?" Killian asked, setting some of their bags on the trolley.

"My test scores are in," she said in a bemused tone. "I got some other letters too."

"We'll head directly to your apartment, just let me get these last bags." He kissed her brow reassuringly, mentally urging the conveyor belt to hurry. He knew how important those test scores were and not only to Emma. Killian had committed to following her wherever her studies took her. He wanted to know almost as badly as she did. Finally, their final two bags came around and he manhandled the bags onto the trolley and wheeled it out to his car. Together, they loaded the trunk, the anticipation making them sloppy.

"I'm nervous," Emma blurted as Killian pulled into traffic.

"I'm certain you did just fine. You worked very hard, love."

"Yeah, I know, I just..." She'd tried not to let her new relationship get in the way of her studies, but what if it had? She hated even thinking it; Killian had been so supportive of her schoolwork and giving her the time she needed. But she'd been so singleminded before she met him and she just worried something had changed. She had changed in the last few months and even though Killian made her insanely happy, she didn't want to give up her dreams.

Killian reached over and took her hand. "We'll get through this together, yeah?"

She swallowed and nodded. "Yeah."

Killian pulled into her apartment complex fifteen minutes later; there were other residents returning from semester break but no one paid Killian any mind. Emma only carried her carry on up to her place; she could get the rest later. She'd been planning on staying at Killian's and unpacking the next day before her shift. Plans, it seemed, would have to change.

Emma unlocked the door and headed inside, Killian on her heels. Elsa was at their kitchen table, molding some chicken wire for a sculpture. "Emma! Wow, that was quick," she said, standing to hug her friend. "I'm so glad you're home."

"Hello, Elsa," Killian said.

"Hey, Killian. Thanks for this," Elsa said, as Emma ignored them both and picked up her mail. There was a bunch of junk; she tossed those aside. The envelope with her test scores was deceptively thin; she tore into it not bothering with the letter opener Elsa had oh so helpfully laid beside the pile. She unfolded the paper and scanned it. And scanned it again.

"Emma?" Killian asked worriedly. "Good news?"

She turned, a grin breaking out on her face. "176," she said, impressed by how calm her voice sounded.

"That's fantastic," Killian cried, catching on quicker than Elsa. He knew far more about that bloody exam than he'd ever expected, but he was now glad he did. He hurried over to her and picked her up, spinning her around as she pretended to squeal in protest. Killian did set her on her feet, but he didn't let go until he kissed her soundly.

"I'm assuming that's a good score?" Elsa asked, smiling bemusedly at the pair.

"Perfect score is 180," Emma explained. "I can get into practically anywhere I want now."

"That's really amazing, Emma," Elsa said earnestly. "I'm so happy for you."

"Open the others, darling," Killian urged. He waited with baited breath as she opened and devoured both letters. He thought it was a bit early for acceptances but he wouldn't complain if they were.

"I made it past the first round for both," Emma said slowly, perusing the Stanford one again. That was where she really wanted to go, now that it didn't seem like a distant dream. It was real. "I should know for sure in a month or so."

Killian laid his hands on her shoulders. "I knew you would."

Emma suddenly felt horribly guilty for her traitorous thoughts of earlier. Killian was a source of strength, not weakness. She turned and hugged him tight, vowing to apologize when they were alone. "Do you mind if I stay here tonight?" Emma asked. "You can too, if you want."

"Please stay," Elsa said. "It doesn't bother me."

"Very well, lass." He smiled. "I'll bring your things up and one of my own bags. You two ladies catch up."

"I can help," Emma began.

"You are dead on your feet. I know it doesn't feel like it right now, but you are. I'll get them. You rest."

Emma recognized that he was giving her some precious time with her best friend, so she didn't argue the point. Instead, she kissed his cheek as he left to get her bags. Emma shrugged out of her winter coat and hug it up in the hall closet. "So how was your break?"

Elsa resumed her seat. "Good. Got to do some skiing. Did you know that David's friend Kristoff lived near us?"

Emma frowned. "I didn't! Did you see him?"

"Yeah, getting ice at the supermarket of all things. Anna decided that baking a cake for Mom's birthday was a wonderful idea so off we went. I almost didn't recognize him. You know, out of his costume."

"What happened?"

"You know how Anna is, thinks she's more graceful than a ballet dancer." Elsa laughed fondly. "Anyway, she was trying to reach for a tub of rocky road on the top shelf but she was too short. She actually climbed into the freezer! Lost her balance and started falling; I tried to catch her but Kristoff was faster. He moves very fast for such a tall guy."

Emma stifled a laugh. "Is Anna okay?"

"Yeah, she's fine. Seems quite taken with Kristoff though."

Killian came in with the first round of bags; he looked comical carrying all the weight. Emma squeezed his hand as he passed. "So what about you?"

"What about me?"

"Come on, Elsa. You didn't meet any mysterious strangers when you went home?"

Elsa rolled her eyes. "I don't think that's possible back home. Maybe I should have gone with you, gotten swept off my feet by some Englishman."

"The accent alone is worth it," Emma confided, grinning. "I highly recommend it."

Elsa laughed. "I'll be sure to keep an eye out then. But I doubt all of them are as wonderful as Killian."

"True. But you deserve to be happy, Elsa."

Elsa laid a gentle hand on Emma's arm. "I'm not unhappy, Emma. Perhaps I'm just waiting for the right person. But look at you, happy and in love."

"Yeah, who'd have thought that?" Killian joined them as they continued to chat; Emma showed off more of her photos. They described some of the places they'd seen, ordering a pizza while they talked. Emma was starting to feel truly tired, but she pressed on until the pizza was finished. She'd missed talking to her best friend.

"I think it's time for bed," Killian observed as Emma stifled a yawn. "The layover in Philadelphia was murder." Killian spoke more to Elsa than Emma. "Are you sure don't mind if I stay, lass?"

"Of course not. I've got a meeting early tomorrow, I'll be gone before you guys wake up. I'm just glad to have you back." She smiled and excused herself, heading for her bedroom at the end of the hall.

Killian took Emma to her room; it was just as he remembered it. He found some flannel sleep pants and a t-shirt in his suitcase that were mostly clean, changing quietly as Emma used the bathroom. She returned and got into the high bed, scooting over to make room for him. "It's good to be home," she murmured as he joined her.

"Aye, good news is always welcome."

"Sorry we didn't make it to your place."

"I'm home wherever you are, sweetheart. The place doesn't matter. You know that."

She snuggled closer. "I'm sorry for something else too."

"What's that?"

She swallowed. "On the way over here, I was worried about my test scores. That us being together might have screwed up my preparation. Which is ridiculous because you are about the best boyfriend a girl could want and I'm just sorry I doubted that. Even for a second."

"You wouldn't be the Emma I love if you didn't overthink," he said gently. "But if it makes you feel better, apology accepted."

"It sounds really silly to say, but I'm not used to being this happy. Sometimes there's a tiny voice that whispers that something might go wrong."

"I promise you, no matter what, I will fight for us, lass. But I hope you will too."

She looked him in the eye. "I will. I promise." She sealed their promise with a kiss before laying her head on his chest. He flicked off the light and held her as they fell asleep.

The next day went by in a blur. Killian went home, spending the day unpacking and doing laundry. His house had a fine layer of dust on nearly everything, so he cleaned up, slowly making the house habitable again. Emma meanwhile went shopping for her new books in the morning before her shift at Granny's. Ruby and Granny greeted her with warm hugs; Ruby teased her mercilessly about her hot boyfriend. Emma confided that she'd wished she'd taken Ruby up on her offer for new lingerie; Ruby arbitrarily decided that they would go shopping very soon.

"But when are we going to meet him?" Ruby asked, wiping down the counter. "If he got you to date, then I need to meet him!"

"I don't know," Emma replied with a shrug. "I was kinda hoping to introduce him to everyone at the same time."

"But that's brilliant! We can all hang out here! Or somewhere else," she added quickly, spying Emma's face. "And you can meet Victor."

"Who's Victor?"

"Just this guy I'm seeing. Not a football player."

"Wow. Lacrosse? Baseball?"

"Nope. He's pre-med."

Emma blinked. "Wow," she said again. "Okay. But maybe we could all meet at the bar on College? Friday night?" She wanted somewhere public so that Elsa wouldn't feel like a seventh wheel. Who knew, maybe she'd meet someone there.

"I'm free. I'll text Victor and let you know. But don't tell Mary Margaret about your boyfriend. I want to see her face."

Emma laughed. "Deal." Mary Margaret was going flip.

After her shift, Emma went home. To her place, rather than Killian's. The semester started tomorrow and she wasn't sure how their schedules would mesh now. They hadn't even talked about him needing a new model for his classes. She tried to sleep, but it was more difficult than she anticipated. She'd gotten used to him beside her.

She lifted her phone from the nightstand. You awake?

It took a minute for him to answer. Aye. Was just heading to bed, love.

Emma dialed, tucking the blanket under her chin. "Hello, my love."

She smiled. "Hey Killian. How was your day?"

"Cleaned up, did laundry. Did some new sketches."

"I thought you'd be getting ready for classes tomorrow."

"First days are usually the same. I updated my syllabus before we left for London."

"Oh."

"I did miss you though. How was Granny's?"

"The same. I suspect World War III could come through and it would be the same."

Killian laughed. Emma wished he was there so she could feel his laugh rumble against her. "Doubtless she was glad to have you back."

"Yeah, I guess."

"Emma, what's wrong?"

She sighed. "It's dumb."

"I assure you, it's not."

"I was just thinking how much I miss having you all to myself."

"We've only been back for a day."

"I know but...classes start tomorrow. You need a new model."

Killian moved his hand behind his head. "Ah."

"See? Dumb." Because she did trust him. She knew deep in her bones that he loved her.

"Emma...you...what happened with us...I've never been attracted to a model before you. Ever. I didn't fall in love with you because you were naked in my class. I love you because of your good heart, your tenacity, the light you bring into my world. I haven't even glanced at another woman since I met you. You are it for me, love."

Emma had a take a deep breath to get a handle on her emotions. "I know. I just...miss you."

"My offer to move in here stands. I must admit to being very greedy when it come to you, Emma."

She chuckled softly. "Me too." She couldn't just leave Elsa in the lurch rent wise though. But deep down Emma suspected they would be living together in all but name, very, very soon. The last month had been incredible, going to bed together every night, waking up to his smile every morning. She wanted that. "So tell me about these new sketches."

As he described all the ways he had drawn her in his new sketchbook, Emma made her choice. She hoped Elsa would understand.

Emma headed for Killian's classroom; she would normally spend the hour before her first class in the library, but this was Killian's first class with his new model. They were meeting her friends that night for drinks at the bar; it was a big day for them all around. He'd left the house early to get the classroom ready; she had a meeting with her Spanish study group at lunchtime, so she wouldn't see him until later.

She just wanted to see him.

Emma knocked on the door before stepping inside. Killian was up on the platform, carrying the plain wooden chair to the center of it. "Hello, Emma. This is a pleasant surprise."

She smiled. "Hey."

"To what do I owe the pleasure?" He draped the sheet over the chair and stepped down, walking up to her and placing a chaste kiss to her cold lips. "That Bug of yours has wretched heat, darling."

She rolled her eyes. "It's fine. It's just a long walk." She unwrapped the scarf from her neck. "Maybe you should warm me up."

"Aye." He leaned down and captured her lips again, gently cupping her face. She hummed into the kiss, sighing as his tongue slipped past her lips. They broke the kiss when air became an issue, Emma's cheeks rosy pink, but not from the cold. "Much better, lass."

"Definitely." She tugged her gloves off and unzipped her coat. "I've got class at 10:15 so I can't stay long, but I wanted to see you."

"I'll never say no to a visit, love." He hugged her. "Sorry for rushing out this morning."

She shrugged. "It's okay. We're still figuring all this out."

"Have you spoken to Elsa yet?"

"I will tonight. I think Ruby might be willing to take my room; she's always complaining about living with Granny. If she moved into my place then she wouldn't have to sneak in and out."

Killian laughed. "I'm very intrigued to meet her, as well as the rest of your friends."

"According to Ruby, I'm not allowed to warn Mary Margaret; she wants to see her face."

"A surprise then? Interesting."

"Do you mind meeting us there? I want to go home, talk to Elsa first."

"Of course. I don't want you to lose touch with your friends because of me."

That was one of the reasons she loved him so much. He didn't begrudge her spending time with her friends or doing her schoolwork. They were a unit but they made room for their independent pursuits. "That's good. I was hoping to make next weekend a girls' weekend."

"As long as this weekend is ours," he replied cheekily.

Emma shivered. She knew exactly what they had planned for the Saturday evening. They were going to break open that Love Is Art kit Killian got them for Christmas. "I believe I promised you a date," she teased.

"Aye, you did." He kissed her again, only breaking apart as the first students began to filter in. Emma blushed, but she stood her ground. They didn't have to hide anymore. If she wanted to kiss her boyfriend before his class then she could.

"Professor Jones?"

Killian glanced over Emma's shoulder. "Ah, Miss Miller. Right on time. Everything is ready; we'll just be doing a simple facial sketch today."

"Sounds good." The woman sounded older than Emma expected, but very businesslike. Killian had told her a little about the woman he chose; Meredith Miller had posed for his classes before. He hadn't put out a flier like last semester; Emma suspected it was because of her. Meredith was a brunette, brown eyes, petite. She was pretty, thin, carried herself like a model. Because it's her job, dummy, Emma thought.

"Emma?"

"Huh?"

"Hey, come back to me," Killian said gently, finger under her chin.

She looked into his blue eyes; she saw the same thing she always saw, love, devotion, forever. "I'm here."

"Good." His lips touched her forehead. "You should get to class."

"Yeah." She stood up on her toes and kissed him. She could feel the eyes on them, the envy, and it made her feel better. Okay, perhaps it was a little petty of her. But she had to endure women ogling him all last semester without revealing that he was hers. Now they had no such restrictions. "Love you," she said quietly.

"And I you, love." He smiled her favorite crooked smile. "Now off with you."

She headed back into the cold morning with a smile plastered on her face.

"Elsa? You home?" Emma called, shrugging out of her coat. She headed for her room, tossing her backpack on her bed. She wasn't overly attached to the space; her only reservation was Elsa. She didn't want Elsa to think she was abandoning her. She wanted to figure out how to balance her friends, school and her boyfriend. Now that she wasn't swamped with schoolwork, she wanted this final semester to be fun.

Elsa stood in the doorway, blowing some hair out of her face. "Sorry, I was in my closet. Were you calling me?"

"Yeah. I, uh, wanted to talk to you before we headed out."

Elsa smiled gently. "Is this about you moving into Killian's place?"

Emma bit her lip. "You know?"

"Emma, I'm your best friend, of course I know."

She cringed. "Are you mad?"

"You're happy. How could I be mad about that?"

Emma sat cross legged on her bed; Elsa climbed up and did the same across from her. "I thought we could go back to how things were last semester," Emma admitted. "But...I like waking up, knowing he's there. I got used to us together, I guess."

Elsa nodded. "It's really okay, Emma. I had a feeling this would happen. You guys are adorable together."

"I thought about asking Ruby if she wanted to sublet my room. If that was okay with you."

"I like Ruby. We can ask her tonight, if you want. Just come visit every once in a while, okay?"

Emma laughed. "Definitely. How would you feel about having a girls' weekend? We could all stay here, you, me, Mary Margaret and Ruby."

"Anna too. She wants to visit, see Kristoff."

"I'd like that. I know she wants to meet Killian."

"See? Moving forward isn't so bad now, is it?"

Emma flushed. "I just didn't want you to think I was abandoning you."

"Emma, this is our last semester. You're going to law school next year. We're not going to be seeing each other every day anymore. But that doesn't mean we won't still be friends. You're like a sister to me."

"Me too." She laughed. "I always wondered what it would be like to have sisters, now I kinda have two."

"Am I sharing?"

"Molly. Elsa, she's really great. I like her. Hopefully, you can meet her some time. I think you'll like her."

"If she's crazy about you, then I already do."

"I'll call her via Skype soon; we definitely need to introduce you."

"We've got some time; let's look at more of these photos you took and I'll try not to be jealous." Emma rolled her eyes; there wasn't a true jealous bone in Elsa's body. She was a truly selfless person. They spent the next couple of hours together, going through Emma's photos, Emma telling stories about the places and people in them. It felt good to reconnect with Elsa; she missed her while they were in England. Occasionally, Emma felt a bit overwhelmed; she had so many people she cared about now, who cared about her. She was so worried about losing them, letting them down. But she was willing to put in the work to make her relationships work.

She changed into one of her favorite outfits; skin tight jeans and a red turtleneck with studded belt. She curled her hair in loose princess curls and added light makeup. It was a casual drink with friends. Introducing them to her boyfriend. No big deal.

Elsa was in jeans and a blue cashmere sweater, long white blonde hair back in a plait. They shrugged into their coats and headed out; warming up the Bug before driving into downtown. Emma parked in the parking garage and they walked arm in arm to the bar. Mary Margaret and David were already there, tucked into a circular booth.

"Emma! Elsa! It's so good to see you!" Mary Margaret cried, jumping up to hug them both. They were exchanging greetings when Ruby and Victor arrived; David went to the bar to get drinks.

"Is he here?" Ruby whispered to Emma.

"Not yet. I asked him to meet us."

"He better hurry up. I've made a bet with Victor."

Emma rolled her eyes, but she looked around for Killian. He wasn't there yet. She accepted the rum and coke that David handed her, joining in the toast with the others. She tried not to look over her shoulder too much; she was starting to get nervous now. She excused herself to check her phone but there were no messages. When she returned from the bathroom, she found him, waiting at the bar.

"There you are," she said, sidling up to him.

"Apologies, lass. Robin popped by my office, tried to talk my bloody ear off."

Emma chuckled. "It's okay. We just got here too. Ready?"

"Aye." He smiled down at her, picked up his drink and offered his hand. Emma took it and guided him to their booth.

"Hey everyone," Emma said, feeling a tiny flutter of anxiety in the pit of her stomach. All eyes turned toward her. "Uh, I...this is Killian. My boyfriend."

"You have a boyfriend?" Mary Margaret screeched happily. "That's wonderful!" She nudged Ruby out of her way; everyone stood and greeted Killian, the guys shaking his hand. She and Killian slid into the circular booth; Mary Margaret immediately drew them into a conversation about how they met. Several eyes grew wide and Mary Margaret blushed furiously as they told the story, but Emma held her head high. She had liked her time as a model; in fact she still was, just solely for Killian. But her friends didn't need to know that.

As the shock of her new boyfriend wore off, David got into a debate with Killian about the merits of American football versus soccer, which no one else was interested in. Emma, Elsa, Ruby and Mary Margaret got into a talk about school and Mary Margaret's student teaching. Another round of drinks led Ruby to the jukebox, which led to dancing and laughter. Killian got on well with her friends, good naturedly taking David ribbing and Ruby's salacious comments. Victor got Killian to do a sketch of Ruby on one of the napkins, which delighted her.

They all shared two baskets of greasy fries, taking the edge off their alcohol consumption. Emma switched to soda water, knowing she had to drive to Killian's after. They played darts, Emma switching partners between Killian and Elsa. At some point, she wound up in Killian's lap, watching as Victor and David got into an arm wrestling match. It was the best time she'd had out with her friends in a long time.

Emma stifled a yawn, her head on Killian's shoulder. "Tired, love?"

"I'm good."

"Did you speak to Elsa?"

She nodded. "Yeah. She already suspected, go figure."

Killian brushed curls off her shoulder. "You have been spending a lot of time at my place," he reminded her.

"I know. Guess I thought I was being stealthy."

He chuckled. "I think you may be a tad inebriated, sweetheart."

"I'll be okay in a bit."

"I can drive us home. Perhaps Elsa could drive your Bug."

She nuzzled his neck. "Hmm, maybe." She closed her eyes, lips brushing his skin. He tightened his hold, content to let her rest. The festivities seemed to be winding down; Ruby and Victor were dancing quietly in the corner; David, Mary Margaret and Elsa were deep in conversation. At midnight, Killian insisted on taking Emma home; Elsa hadn't indulged nearly as much as the others, she agreed to take Emma's Bug. Killian thanked her, after making sure she was okay to drive.

"Let's go home, love," he said, helping Emma into her coat. They didn't talk on the way to the car or the drive back to his house; Killian had to carry her into the house because she was just too tired to walk on her own. It had been a hectic week; he could hardly blame her. Once she was fully moved in, they could start running together in the mornings. He tried not to be too excited but having her with him all the time was a dream come true. He wanted the transition to be as smooth as possible.

He got her upstairs; she was alert enough to change into her flannel pajamas on her own. Killian stripped to his boxers before joining her under the covers. "Good night, lass."

"Night, Killian." She snuggled into his side was out like a light. He chuckled and kissed her hair, following not long after.

Killian spread out the tarp on the floor of the living room. It was the only room with enough space for the canvas, aside from his studio. But the studio would be chilly, even with the space heaters, and the floor was hard. He wanted them to be comfortable as they indulged in this. He made sure the front curtains were securely closed; he was the only person who got to see Emma like this now. Job done, he laid out the canvas; it was a solid matte black. He secured the corners and stepped away, waiting for Emma.

Emma was in the bedroom, braiding her hair. She didn't want to get paint in her hair. She twisted the braids up into a knot then scrubbed her face. Emma felt inexplicably self conscious; she was nude, planning on only wearing her robe downstairs. Undressing would just waste time. She was intrigued by what they were going to do; she'd never done anything remotely close to this before. It felt like all their previous erotic art ventures had lead up to this.

She rechecked her hair and shrugged into the robe. The worn soft cloth comforted her; it was the same robe Killian had unknowingly given her at the beginning of their journey together. She loved it; it reminded her that he'd cared about her from the very beginning. She had no idea when she accepted the job that it would change her life, but she was very happy that it had.

Emma padded down the stairs; soft music was playing. It was an instrumental piece she didn't recognize, but she liked it. Killian was waiting, looking very handsome in his jeans, shirt and vest. The sight of him still made her breathing hitch; she suspected it always would. She stepped up behind him, wrapping her arms around his waist. "Hey."

"Evening, lass."

She laid her head on his broad back. "Hmm, you smell nice."

He chuckled. "Can't say that I noticed, but I'm pleased you think so."

She squeezed his stomach before stepping around to face him. "I notice a lot of things about you."

Killian smiled, resting his hands on her hips. "Do you now?"

"Yeah, like this." She stood up on her toes and kissed the hollow of his throat. He sucked in a breath; her lips on his skin never failed to get his heart racing. She laid her hands on his chest to steady herself as she nibbled and licked at the exposed skin. His neck was one of her favorite parts; she could feel his pulse under her tongue.

Killian hummed, hands tightening on her waist. Finally, he couldn't take it anymore, cupping the back of her head and dragging her lips to his, kissing her passionately. Emma moaned softly, pressing herself against him. She squeaked as he picked her up and set her on top of the back of the couch. She wrapped her legs around his waist, nipping sharply at his lower lip, earning her a growl as she began to unbutton his vest and shirt.

Killian spread his hands under the terry cloth, easing it off her shoulders. He liked that she wore the robe he'd given her; it was his but it looked better on her. He palmed and fondled her breasts, pausing only when she stripped off his shirt. "I can't wait to see you covered in paint," he murmured in her ear. "So beautiful."

Heat pooled in her belly. "You too," she replied huskily. "I want to play too."

"And you will," he assured her, guiding her hands to his fly. "As soon as we're naked."

She grinned up at him, stroking his hardening cock through his jeans. He groaned, lightly thrusting into her touch. He captured her mouth again, his kiss almost bruising. Emma gave as good as she got, roughly unzipping his fly and jerking his pants down. Now that they were doing this, she was excited, her nerves melting away. She was with Killian and he made her feel safe.

She hopped off the couch; Killian hastily untied the belt holding the robe together. "Drove me crazy," he mumbled. "Seeing you in this every day." Emma lowered her arms and it pooled at her feet. "Mine."

She nodded, stepping closer, pressing a kiss just over his thrumming heart. She skimmed her hands down over his abs to the waistband of his boxers. Slowly, she removed the final barriers between them, kneeling at his feet as he stepped out of the jeans. He urged her up, kissing her again, guiding them to the canvas. They both knelt, hands wandering, Emma deftly wrapping her fingers around his now straining cock. Her hands would be covered in paint soon, so she wanted to touch while she could.

"Bloody hell," he hissed, biting at the juncture of her shoulder and neck.

"I love touching you," she said, giving his ass a squeeze with her free hand. His body was hard and toned, gorgeous to look at. But she loved the sounds he made as she touched him, making him insane with need.

"If you keep doing that," he panted, "we won't get to the paint, darling."

She gave him another long stroke then released him. "Okay, I'm ready."

"Sodding minx." He kissed her quickly, then stretched for the paint. Emma sat back on her haunches, knees spread, hoping to ease the ache that was already building in her. Killian came up behind her, still on his knees. His lips trailed over her collar, hand skimming down her back. "You'll make such a lovely canvas."

Her eyes fluttered shut. "Do it." She inhaled sharply as the cold paint touched her skin, squeezed from its bottle. Killian started at her collarbone, golden paint sliding down toward her chest. He kissed the other side of her neck, setting the bottle aside. His fingers slid across her chest, slashing through the paint, her back against his chest. His cock was nestled in the crease of her ass; Emma rolled her hips into it.

Killian moved his hand to her breast, smearing paint over the soft round globe. Emma whimpered as he manipulated her nipples, one covered in paint. She arched, covering his palms with hers. Paint squeezed between her fingers. "More."

"As you wish." He picked up the bottle. "Lay down, love."

Emma stretched out on the canvas, her stomach muscles trembling. Killian squeezed more paint on her skin, right on that flat belly. Then he pressed the bottle into her hand. "Your turn."

"In a minute." She laid it aside and pulled him down, he covered her with his body as they kissed, paint smearing over their bodies. Emma rolled them over and straddled his hips. Only then did she snatch up the paint bottle and used it, squeezing a liberal amount into her palm. She drew nonsense on his skin, tracing the lines of his muscles. Killian ran his hands over her hips, rubbing more paint over her skin as she gently rocked her hips. The friction was just enough to tease; neither of them was in any hurry. Light teasing touches, gold paint spreading over their skin, onto the canvas.

Killian laid Emma on her stomach; He drizzled paint along the slope of her spine, kissing her shoulder blades as he drew nonsense into her skin. "Alright, lass?"

Emma nodded, feeling both languid and hot at the same time. She ached for him to fill her, but she wasn't ready for the teasing to end. "Don't stop."

He kissed one of the globes of her ass. "Lift up, Emma. Spread your knees." She did as he asked, head and chest still against the canvas, her ass in the air. Killian spread her cheeks, golden handprints on her skin as he kissed her puckered hole. Emma jerked a little, surprised, but her squeak melted into a moan as he kissed and licked her. "You like this?" he asked.

"Mmhmm," she hummed, stretching her arms out in front of her. Streaks of paint were left behind, a testament to how amazing he was making her feel.

Killian bit back a groan. "Perhaps one day," he said. He was certain Emma had never done that before and he wouldn't force her. He didn't need that to be utterly enslaved to her. He teased her one last time before sliding his mouth down to her aching pink slit. Emma gasped as he licked the length of her. A curse tumbled from her lips as he tongued her entrance, lapping at her copious arousal. "So wet, my darling."

"Ugh," Emma moaned, trying to thrust her hips back toward him. She spread her knees wider, the paint making it easier for her to move. Killian spotted the streaks her writhing left behind and he had to fight the urge to just drive into her. He wasn't ready for this to be over; he was enjoying it too much. He ducked his head and sucked her clit between his lips; Emma shuddered in pleasure. She chanted his name in a slightly strangled voice, her body tightening, climbing higher and higher. "Killian, please."

He returned to her entrance, plunging his tongue in as far as he could; Emma pushed back, trying to relieve the pressure, fuck his mouth. Finally he pulled hard on her clit, the sensitive nub between his teeth and Emma screamed, colors exploding behind her closed eyes as she climaxed. Killian dragged it out until she was whimpering, It was almost too much. He left her with a parting kiss, gently rolling her onto her back. Killian stretched out beside her, licking his lips.

The paint was starting to dry on their skin, but he gave her a respite; they had plenty of paint to keep going. Emma hummed, the ache in her body not entirely gone despite her powerful orgasm. Coming without him inside her felt slightly hollow, not enough. She needed that connection. Gradually her breath returned and she rolled onto her side, facing him. She kissed him, plucking the fresh bottle of paint from his hand.

"I liked finger painting as a kid," she said quietly, moving to sit up. Killian followed her, pleasantly surprised when she climbed into his lap. "Let me?"

"Anything," he agreed, chasing her lips. They made out as she poured more paint into her palms. She made sure her hands were completely covered before splaying them over his back. Thick paint smeared over his back and shoulders; Killian shivered and groaned. It was such a sensual moment; he got some paint of his own, smearing it over her thighs and hips. They toppled over, hands everywhere, rolling across the canvas. They only paused their kissing to breathe, until Emma was once again in Killian's lap. "Emma. Fuck." He sucked greedily on her pulse, one of the few patches of skin not smeared with paint. He left an angry red mark there, a stark contrast to her golden skin. "Need you, lass."

"God yes," she breathed. She kissed him again. "How do you want me?"

"Don't care as long as I'm in you," he bit out. Still, the flipped them so Emma was on her back. She giggled as he settled between her thighs, cock bobbing. He grinned wolfishly, running his hands up her body until their hands were entwined above her head. He jerked his hips forward, taking her in one deep stroke. Emma moaned loudly, relishing that initial stretch. Killian kissed her as he fucked her slowly with shallow thrusts. "So hot and wet for me. So good."

Emma's back arched, locking her ankles at the small of his back, forcing him deeper. "Fuck, just like that," she gasped, head thrashing. "You feel...god."

"Shit," he cursed, the heat of her scorching. He picked up the pace, adjusting his hips, seeking out the spot that would make her scream for him. Emma squeezed his hands, hips rocking up to meet him, skin slapping hard.

"Faster," she pleaded, wetting her lips. "So close."

Killian heeded her, letting go of one of her hands. He hitched her right leg under his arm, sweat beading on his brow as he took her harder, faster. Emma cried out, back arching as a second climax threatened to overwhelm her. "Come for me, Emma. Come."

She tried to nod, but she lost control of her body, walls clamping on his thick cock, nonsense tumbling from her lips. Killian let out a strangled grunt as he followed her, spilling himself deep inside her. Emma was only vaguely aware as he eventually softened and rolled off her; the experience had been intense. She whined as he eased on her side, lips skimming her paint streaked brow. Neither of them moved for a while, slowly regaining their breath and their wits.

"Okay, Emma?" Killian asked.

She nodded. "Yeah. You?"

"I'm perfect." He was curious what their art looked like but they could examine it once it was dry. "Thank you for indulging me."

"This was fun. More than, really." She smiled. "I can't wait to see what it looks like."

"Tomorrow," he said firmly. "Now we have the other fun part."

"Other fun part? Did I miss something?"

"Cleaning up, of course."

She laughed. "Right. Shower?"

"I was thinking a bath."

"I love the way you think, babe." Emma giggled as Killian helped her up. They were covered in streaks and smudges of gold paint. They held hands as they trooped upstairs; Killian started running the bath water while Emma found them more music on his phone. Killian crowded her against the vanity and kissed her deeply; just enjoying the sweetness of her kiss until the bath was ready.

"Into the tub with you, lass," he said mischievously, picking her up. Emma screeched and clung to his neck as he stepped into the bath. This was one of those times where she especially appreciated those workouts Liam had teased his brother about. Killian lowered them into the hot water, his deep laugh rumbling against her. "Now this is much better."

Emma looked at him skeptically. "You seemed to be having fun earlier."

"I definitely did, love." His wet hand skimmed her collar where he first poured paint on her skin. "One I would not be opposed to repeating in the future."

"Let's see how it turns out first." Emma settled in his lap, knees on either side of his hips. She wrapped her arms around his neck and leaned in to kiss him, gentle brushing of the lips. "Thank you."

"For what?"

She shrugged. "Everything, I guess. A lot's happened in the last few months."

He stroked the apple of her cheek with his wet thumb. "Aye. I'm thankful you gave me a chance to make you happy."

She smiled. "Think we'll make it?"

"Emma, we've got a whole future to look forward to. I promise you, it'll be amazing." He kissed her again and Emma sighed into it. Killian always kept his promises; he'd made her a believer.

The water was already beginning to turn gold as they soaked. Emma reached for the soap and a washcloth; she enjoyed this part especially. She lathered the soap and started with his chest, gently scrubbing away the paint. Killian snagged another and started on her, occasionally stealing a kiss or three. Emma moaned softly as he touched her; warmth pooled low in her belly.

"Emma," Killian breathed, nipping at her earlobe. "Bloody hell, those sounds you make..."

Emma guided his hands to her breasts, washcloth forgotten. They were mostly clean now, skin soapy and wet. "I don't think we're done," she muttered, kissing him hungrily.

"I'll never be done with you," he affirmed, roughly pinching her nipples. She groaned and arched, nails digging into his shoulders. Emma pressed herself closer, Killian's large hands slid under her ass, where he kneaded and squeezed. Her core brushed his already hardening cock; it wouldn't be long before he could have her again.

"Oh god," Emma hissed, undulating in his lap.

Killian chuckled darkly and slipped his hand between them. "Are you wet, darling? Hungry for more?" He touched her, feeling her swollen clit, playing with her entrance. She moaned louder, hips rolling. "Bloody hell, I love you." He crashed his mouth to hers, tongue in her mouth, deftly teasing her clit. "You are so fucking hot."

Emma bit her lip, trying to urge his fingers inside her. "So...fuck...are you." She reached between them and took him in her hand, stroking him the way he liked, with just a touch of roughness. He hardened further, growling low in his throat. Emma licked at the water on his neck, sucking greedily on his skin. "Are you gonna fuck me or not?"

"Christ, love." He pinched her clit, making her cry out. "You don't know all things I want to do to you."

"We've got...lots of time," she groaned. "Need you."

"Take me in, Emma. Fuck." Emma lifted her hips, guiding him to her entrance. Her mouth opened in a sharp needy moan as he pushed inside. She used the buoyancy of the water to ride him; Killian held her close, pressing kisses to her lips, jaw and neck. She moved faster, eyes fluttering shut, the thick drag of him so good. Her stiff nipples scraped over his coarse wet chest hair making her shiver and bite her lip. Killian's fingers dug into her skin; she hoped she'd have bruises, a testament to how much he needed her.

"Oh...oh yes," Emma breathed, shuddering as he slipped even deeper inside her. "Feels so good."

Water splashed over the side of the tub but no one cared. All Killian could focus on was her tight wet sheath around him. "Squeeze me, Emma. Love that."

Emma used his shoulders for leverage, slowing her pace, sucking on her lower lip as she tightened those inner muscles around his thick shaft. She repeated it on every drive of her hips, leaving Killian to chant her name under his breath. His climax tingled at the base of his spine, but he wasn't going without her. He found her clit with his thumb, rubbing it furiously. Emma cried out, her rhythm faltering.

"Killian," she panted. "Fuck...just a little more. Please."

He adjusted the angle of his hips in the water, seeking the perfect spot. Emma shuddered and gasped, nodding furiously. "Let go, Emma. I've got you."

She threw her head back and screamed, pleasure washing through her as she climaxed. Killian lifted her off and turned her around, weak legs holding her up as she bent over, hands gripping the porcelain edge of the tub. Killian plunged inside her waiting fluttering heat, holding her up, an arm wrapped under her stomach. He took her hard, roaring as he pulsed and bathed her walls in his essence.

They fell back into the tub, water splashing all over the floor. Emma sagged against his chest, utterly spent. Killian kissed her hair between deep breaths, arms around her waist. The water had lost its heat but they were too tired to move for while.

"Emma?"

"Hmm?"

"We should get you to bed, lass."

"Yeah."

"Can you walk?"

"I think so." Only the chilly water could induce her to move at the moment. She felt boneless and sated; only Killian could make her feel like that. She forced herself to stand and step out of the tub. Killian followed, ready to catch her if she stumbled. She didn't, merely handing him a towel before taking one for herself. They dried off and made their way to the bedroom. Emma slipped on one of Killian's t-shirts, her only effort at pajamas. Killian found some boxers before joining Emma in bed. "Killian?"

"Yes, love?"

"I love you."

He spooned her from behind. "I love you too, Emma." And he had a lifetime to continue to show her how much.